Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Symptoms

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is bleeding in the subarachnoid space.

The subarachnoid space is located between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater, which are 2 of the 3 meningeal layers that surround the brain and spinal cord.

The accumulation of blood in the subarachnoid space can lead to the following symptoms.


SAH Symptoms

Symptoms of subarachnoid hemorrhage may include:

  • Headache (severe)

    • Often described as a “thunderclap” headache

    • Often the “worst headache of life”

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

  • Neck stiffness (nuchal rigidity)

  • Neurological symptoms

    • Weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, etc.

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Confusion

  • Vision changes

  • Seizures


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